The 2021 census takes place on Sunday 21 March. The whole population has the chance to provide the information which ensures all communities are represented. Due to the pandemic, the results of the census may not be representative of Leicester’s population in the same way as it has before and this could have an adverse effect on future funding for the city. For this reason, we are asking our students to list their term-time address when completing the 2021 census.
What is the census?
The census is a survey that happens every 10 years in England and Wales. It gives the government a picture of the population which then informs where billions of pounds of funding is spent on things like transport, education and health. It’s compulsory for everyone to take part, but any published information is anonymous.
Questions cover a range of topics, such as your name, age, sex and marital status, as well as three new topics for 2021: service in the UK Armed Forces; gender identity and sexual orientation. The responses will allow the government to see what our needs are, and what they may be in the future.
What do I need to do?
This year, the census will be ‘digital first’ meaning you will be able to complete it online. You will receive an access code in the post, and then you will be able to fill yours in online.
We know that a sizeable number of our students are now living at home, but we are asking you to register at your term-time address in order to help Leicester get the correct funding for the population it would normally have. This will lead to investment in the local community which will not only benefit you upon your return, but also future generations.
For further help and more details, visit www.census.gov.uk who will have an online help area as well as help by phone, webchat, email, social media or text message.
Posted on Monday 1 March 2021